Bhubaneswar, March 2: The 32nd edition of the oldest book fair in the state began today at the Exhibition Ground in the city.
While books and knowledge related products are being exhibited at the fair, there are also a host of book releases, reading sessions and literary events on the cards.
Leading publishing houses from across the country and the state are taking part in the fair that has kiosks dedicated to literature as well as academic books, books on religion and non-fictions.
Over 300 kiosks have been set up at the fair that attracts huge footfalls throughout the 12-day event. From Upendra Bhanja, Fakir Mohan, Gangadhar Meher to Manoj Das, Bibhuti Patnaik, Pratibha Ray and Pratibha Satpathy - one can find omnibuses, short stories and novels by eminent authors from the state.
Major Odia publishing houses such as Grantha Mandir, Vidyapuri and Friends Publishers are offering celebrated works as well as new books by authors. There are also kiosks sponsored by the central government and Delhi-based publishing houses such as the Kedriya Sahitya Akademi and the National Book Trust. Bangalore and Calcutta-based publishing houses have also opened kiosks in the fair.
There are English novels from across the world at attractive discounts, along with children's books. The most sought-after kiosks are those that sell second-hand books, be it novels or illustrated books for the kids. The illustrated books are colourful and often come with musical instruments. They are sold at Rs 20 per book in the second-hand kiosks. "I purchased 20 of these books for my little one since they are sold out soon. I wish Odia children's books were also designed in this manner," said Alka Parida, a visitor at the fair.
The organisers said the book fair was started by a group of literary enthusiasts since there were none in the state in the early 1980s. "We were inspired by huge book fairs in Delhi and Calcutta and planned one for Bhubaneswar. It immediately attracted readers in hordes and the footfalls have been increasing ever since," said the secretary of the book fair, Barendra Krushna Dhal. The book fair will end on March 13.
